Vehicle cargo bed extender

ABSTRACT

A vehicle bed extender particularly adapted for ease of installation and removal. The extender includes a first side wall, a second side wall, a connecting wall, a first mount, a second mount, a first mounting station, and a second mounting station. The connecting wall, the first side wall, and the second side wall cooperate to form a generally U-shaped frame. The first mounting station and the second mounting station each comprise a stationary portion and a moveable portion configured such that the moveable portion, in a first position, cooperates with the stationary portion to engage the first mount or the second mount and to prevent disengagement. The moveable portion of the first mounting station and the second mounting station can be moved by a manual application of pressure to a second position which allows such disengagement.

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 60/612,544, which was filed Sep. 23, 2004 and is entitled “VEHICLECARGO BED EXTENDER.” The foregoing provisional patent application ishereby incorporated by reference in its entirety into this application.

This application is also related to but does not claim priority to thefollowing United States Patent Applications: U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 10/914,384, filed Aug. 9, 2004, which is pending, which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/171,456, filed Jun.11, 2002, which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 6,805,392, which is acontinuation of prior U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/524,332, filedMar. 13, 2000, which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 6,402,215, which is acontinuation of prior U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/347,472, filedJul. 2, 1999 and abandoned, which claims the benefit of prior U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 60/091,623, filed Jul. 2, 1998, andis a continuation-in-part of prior U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/022,951, filed Feb. 12, 1998 and abandoned, which claims the benefitof prior U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/063,784, filed Oct.31, 1997, and is a continuation-in-part of prior U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 08/924,230, filed Sep. 5, 1997, which issued as U.S. Pat. No.6,113,173 and which is a continuation of prior U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 08/651,921, filed on May 21, 1996, which issued as U.S. Pat.No. 5,700,047. All of the foregoing applications are incorporated byreference in their entirety into this application.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

Embodiments of the invention relate to an improved truck bed extenderand, in particular, to a truck bed extender particularly adapted forease of installation and removal.

2. Description of the Related Art

Pick-up trucks are extremely popular. One of their primary advantages isthe ability to haul loads in the storage bed located behind the cab ofthe vehicle. Unfortunately, often the storage bed is of an undesirableconfiguration for the load being transported. In particular, it is notunusual for the load to be larger than the truck bed, so that thetailgate of the truck needs to be lowered to enable the load toadequately transferred. Unfortunately, this raises the risk that theload will fall out of the back of the truck, or that the load will needto be tied down, taking additional time.

For this reason, various truck bed extenders have been developed. Theseextenders are typically mounted to the truck bed by brackets or hinges.Truck bed extenders often comprise a series of light weight panelsdesigned to be foldable to minimize their impact on storage space whennot in use, as is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 4,472,639 to Bianchi.Alternatively, the truck bed extenders may comprise strong, butrelatively heavy and nonfoldable units, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat.No. 4,778,213 to Palmer. Palmer discloses extended side supports securedto the tailgate by brackets or welding and a supplemental tailgate. Whenthe main tailgate is closed, the supplemental tailgate extends over thetop of the vehicle's storage bed. It is disclosed that a flexiblenetting may be secured to the right and left supports so that thenetting extends in a vertical plane to form a storage box.

There remains, however, a need for an improved truck bed extender.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a preferred embodiment, there is provided an improved truck bedextender which is particularly adapted for ease of installation andremoval. When not being used to extend the truck bed, the extender isadvantageously adapted to quickly and easily create a secondary storagearea. Another aspect of the invention is a method for utilizing a truckbed extender.

In one embodiment, there is provided a truck bed extender for use with avehicle having an open storage bed having a rear end, a first upstandingside panel to one side of the bed, a second upstanding side panel to anopposite side of the bed, and a tailgate, wherein the first upstandingpanel defines a first mounting station and the second upstanding paneldefines a second mounting station. The extender has a first side wall, asecond side wall, a connecting wall, a first mount and a second mountingmount. The connecting wall extends between the first side wall and thesecond side wall, and cooperates with the first side wall and secondside wall to form a generally U-shaped frame. The first mount is securedto the first side wall and includes a first interlocking member. Thesecond mount is secured to the second side wall and comprising a secondinterlocking member. The first interlocking member and the firstmounting station and the second interlocking member and the secondmounting station cooperate to secure the truck bed extender to thevehicle so that the extender is rotatable about an axis between a firstposition and a second position. In the first position, the connectingwall is in an upright position over the tailgate rearward of the rearend of the bed. In the second position, the connecting wall is in anupright position spaced forward from the rear end of the bed and thetailgate.

Advantageously, the first mounting station comprises a first apertureand the second mounting station comprises a second aperture and thefirst interlocking member is a retractable male member sized and shapedto be received and retained within the first aperture and the secondinterlocking member is a retractable male member sized and shaped to bereceived and retained within the second aperture. An important aspect ofthe invention is that the connecting wall desirably comprises at leasttwo interconnecting sections which are slidable relative one anotherpermitting the horizontal span of the connecting wall to be adjusted tocorrespond to the particular width of the truck bed. Effective truck bedwidths can vary between manufacturers and vary depending on whether atruck bed protector has been installed. Advantageously, the extender'sadjustability desirably permits the identical extender to be used withmost truck beds, at least in a given size classification.

The extender may also comprise a first L-shaped section defining thefirst side wall and a first portion of the connecting wall and a secondL-shaped section defining the second side wall and a second portion ofthe connecting wall. Advantageously, these L-shaped portionssignificantly increase the strength and rigidity of the extender,enhancing its ability to withstand bumping by heavy cargo, such asmotorcycles, as well as external impact.

In one embodiment, there is provided at least one buckle secured to oneof the walls sized and shaped to be releasably locked to the latch ofthe vehicle tailgate. Significantly, the buckle provides a supplementalattachment point which minimizes movement and vibration of the extenderwhile driving and is quickly releasable by using the vehicle tailgate'sown opening mechanism.

In one embodiment, there is provided a truck bed extender for use with avehicle having a storage bed. The extender includes a first side wall, asecond side wall, a connecting wall, a first mount and a second mount.The connecting wall extends between the first wall and the second walland cooperates with the first wall and second wall to form a generalU-shaped frame. The first mount is secured to the first side wall andincludes a first interlocking member. The second mount is secured to thesecond wall and includes a second interlocking member. The extender issecurable to the vehicle through cooperation of the first interlockingmember and the first mounting station and the second interlocking memberand the second mounting station in a first position wherein theconnecting wall is in an upright position over the tailgate rearward ofthe rear end of the storage bed and a second position wherein theconnecting wall is in an upright position spaced forward from the rearend of the bed and the tailgate.

In one embodiment, there is provided a truck bed extender for use with avehicle having a first side panel defining a first forward mountingstation and a first rearward mounting station, and a second paneldefining a second forward mounting station and a second rearwardmounting station, wherein the extender includes a first side wall, asecond side wall, a connecting wall, a first mount and a second mount.The connecting wall extends between the first side wall and the secondside wall, and cooperates with the first side wall and the second sidewall to form a generally U-shaped frame. The first mount is secured tothe first side wall and includes a first interlocking member. The secondmount is secured to the second side wall and comprises a secondinterlocking member. The extender is securable to the vehicle throughcooperation of: (1) the first interlocking member and the first forwardstation and the second interlocking member and the second forwardstation in a first position wherein the first side wall and the secondside wall extend forward of the connecting wall and the connecting wallis in an upright position spaced rearward from the front panel, and (2)the first interlocking member and the first rearward station, and thesecond interlocking member and the second rearward station in a secondposition wherein the connecting wall is in an upright position spacedrearward from the rear end of the bed over the tailgate.

Desirably, the extender is also securable to the vehicle throughcooperation of the first interlocking member and the first rearwardstation and the second interlocking member and the second rearwardstation in a third position, wherein the connecting wall is in anupright position spaced forward from the rear end of the bed and thetailgate.

As will be readily apparent to one of skill in the art, with respect tocertain embodiments a method is described for mounting a truck bedextender on a vehicle.

In one embodiment, there is provided a truck bed extender for use with avehicle having an open storage bed having a rear end, a first upstandingside panel to one side of the bed having an inner side, a secondupstanding side panel to the opposite side of the bed having an innerside, and a tailgate. A first mounting station fixed with respect to thefirst upstanding panel defines a first station surface and a secondmounting station fixed with respect to a second upstanding panel definesa second station surface. The bed extender comprises a first sidewall, asecond sidewall, a connecting wall, a first mount and a second mount.The connecting wall extends between the first sidewall and the secondsidewall. The first sidewall, the second sidewall and the connectingwall cooperate to form generally u-shape frame having a first open sideand a second open side. The first mount is on the first sidewall andcomprises a first interlocking member defining a first mount surface.The second mount is on the second sidewall and comprises a secondinterlocking member defining a second mount surface. The first stationsurface and the first mount surface, and the second station surface andthe first mount surface cooperate to secure the apparatus to the vehicleso that the apparatus is in an upright position over the tailgaterearward of the rear end of the bed with the first open side facing awayfrom the tailgate and the second open side facing toward the tailgate.One of the first station surface and the first mount surface defines afirst opening through which the other of the first station surface andthe first mount surface can be manually withdrawn from the inner side ofthe first panel to disengage the extender from the first panel. One ofthe second station surface and the second mount surface defines thesecond opening through which the other of the second station surface andthe second mount surface can be manually withdrawn from the inner sideof the second panel to disengage the extender from the second panel.

Desirably, the extender is rotatable about an axis between a firstposition wherein the connecting wall is in a substantially verticalposition over the tailgate rearward of the rear end of the bed and thefirst mount cooperates with the first station and the second mountcooperates with the second station to secure the assembly againstmovement radial to the axis, and a second position wherein theconnecting wall is in a nonvertical position and the first mountcooperates with the first station and the second mount cooperates withthe second station to permit the assembly to be moved full radially withrespect to the axis.

According to one embodiment, a method is described for an individual tomount a vehicle bed extender on a vehicle without tools including:aligning a first mount fixed with respect to the extender with a firstspace defined by the first station and aligning a second mount fixedwith respect to the extender with a second space defined by the secondstation; moving the bed extender such that the first mount movesradially through the first space with respect to an axis defined by thefirst station and the second station and the second mount moves radiallywith respect to the axis through the second space; and pivoting theextender about the axis so that the first mount cooperates with thefirst station and the second mount cooperates with the second station toprevent radial movement of the first mount with respect to the axis andthe second mount with respect to the axis.

According to one embodiment, a method is described for an individual tomount a vehicle bed extender on a vehicle without tools, including:grasping the bed extender in the first location with one hand; graspingthe bed extender in a second location spaced from the first locationwith another hand; while continuing to grasp the extender with the firsthand and the second hand, aligning the first mount with a first spacedefined by the first station and aligning a second mount with a secondspace defined by the second station; and while continuing to grasp theextender with the first hand and the second hand, moving the bedextender such that the first mount moves through the first space definedby the first station and the second mount moves through the second spacedefined by the second station.

In one embodiment, there is provided a truck bed extender for use with avehicle having an open storage bed having a rear end, a first standingside panel to one side of the bed, a second upstanding side panel to anopposite side of the bed and a tailgate, a first mounting station fixedwith respect to the first upstanding panel defining a first stationsurface and a second mounting station fixed with respect to the secondupstanding panel defining a second station surface. The extenderincludes a first sidewall, a second sidewall, a connecting wallextending between the first sidewall and the second sidewall, a firstmount secured to the first sidewall, and a second mount secured to thesecond sidewall. The first sidewall of the second sidewall and theconnecting wall cooperate to form a generally U-shaped frame. The firstmount defines a first mount surface and the second mount defines asecond mount surface. The first station surface and the first mountsurface, and the second station surface and the first mount surfacecooperate to secure the apparatus to the vehicle so that the connectingwall is in an upright position over the tailgate rearward of the rearend of the bed. The tailgate defines a latch to secure the tailgate toat least one of the first upstanding panel and the second upstandingpanel. The truck bed extender further includes at least one interlockmember secured to one of the walls sized and shaped to be releasablycaptured by the latch of the tailgate. Desirably, the interlock membercomprises a buckle or a cylindrical interlock portion rigidly secured tothe connecting wall. Significantly, this stabilizes the tailgate againstmovement when the vehicle strikes an object, such as a speed bump.

In one embodiment, there is provided a truck bed extender for use withthe vehicle having an open storage bed having a rear end, a firstupstanding side panel to one side of the bed, a second upstanding sidepanel to an opposite side of the bed and a tailgate, a first forwardmounting station fixed with respect to the first panel, a second forwardmounting station fixed with respect to the second panel, a firstrearward mounting station fixed with respect to the first panel and asecond rearward mounting station fixed with respect to the second panel.The apparatus includes a first sidewall, a second sidewall, a connectingwall extending between a first sidewall and the second sidewall, a firstmount secured to the first sidewall and the second mounts secured to thesecond sidewall. The first sidewall, and the second sidewall and theconnecting wall cooperate to form a generally U-shaped frame. The firstmount comprises a first interlocking member and the second mountcomprises a second interlocking member. The extender is mountable in afirst position wherein the connecting wall is in a substantiallyvertical position spaced above the tailgate rearward of said rear end ofsaid bed, and a second position wherein the connecting wall is in asubstantially vertical position forward of the rear end of the bed andspaced above the rear end of the bed.

In one embodiment, there is provided a truck bed extender for use withthe vehicle having an open storage bed having an open end, firstupstanding side panel to one side of the bed having an inner side havinga lower end and an upper end, a second upstanding side panel to anopposite side of the bed having an inner side and a tailgate, a firstmounting station fixed with respect to the first upstanding paneldefining a first station surface, and a second mounting station fixedwith respect to the second upstanding panel defining a second stationsurface. The apparatus includes a first sidewall, a second sidewall, aconnecting wall extending between the first sidewall and the secondsidewall, a first mount on the first sidewall and a second mount on thesecond sidewall. The first sidewall, the second sidewall and theconnecting wall cooperate to form a generally u-shape frame having afirst open side and a second open side. The first mount comprises afirst interlocking member defining a first mount surface and the secondmount comprises a second interlocking member defining a second mountsurface. The first station surface and the first mount surface, and thesecond station surface and the first mount surface cooperate to securethe apparatus to the vehicle so that the apparatus is in an uprightposition over the tailgate rearward of the rear end of the bed with thefirst open side facing away from the tailgate and the second open sidefacing toward the tailgate. One of the first station surface and thefirst mount surface defines a first opening through which the other ofthe first station surface and the first mount surface can be withdrawnfrom the inner side of the first panel to disengage the extender fromthe first panel. One of the second station surface and the second mountsurface defines a second opening through which the other of the secondstation surface and the second mount surface can be withdrawn from theinner side of the second panel to disengage the extender from the secondpanel. The first mount forms a single piece with a portion of the wallextending at least the majority of the distance between the upper endand the lower end of the first panel.

In one embodiment, there is provided a vehicle bed extender for use witha vehicle having an open storage bed having a rear end, a firstupstanding side panel to one side of said bed having an inner side, asecond upstanding side panel to an opposite side of said bed having aninner side and a tailgate. The extender comprises a first side wall, asecond side wall, a connecting wall extending between the first sidewall and the second side wall, a first mount comprising a firstinterlocking portion, a first mounting station, a second mountcomprising a second interlocking portion, and a second mounting station.The first side wall, the second side wall and the connecting wallcooperate to form a generally U-shaped frame having a first open sideand a second open side. The first mounting station is configured to befixed with respect to one of the first upstanding side panel and thesecond upstanding side panel. The first mounting station is alsoconfigured to engage the first interlocking portion. The first mountingstation comprises a first stationary portion and a first moveableportion. The first moveable portion comprises a first stop configured toprevent the first interlocking portion from disengaging from the firstmounting station when the first moveable portion is in a first position.The second mounting station is configured to be fixed with respect toone of the first upstanding side panel and the second upstanding sidepanel. The second mounting station is also configured to engage thesecond interlocking portion. The second mounting station comprises asecond stationary portion and a second moveable portion. The secondmoveable portion comprises a second stop configured to prevent thesecond interlocking portion from disengaging from the second mountingstation when the first moveable portion is in a first position. Thefirst mount, the first mounting station, the second mount, and thesecond mounting station cooperate to secure the extender to the vehicleso that the extender is in an upright position over the tailgaterearward of the rear end of the bed with the first open side facing awayfrom the tailgate and the second open side facing toward the tailgate.In this position, the extender provides access from above to a spacebetween the first side wall and the second side wall.

In the foregoing embodiment, the first moveable portion of the firstmounting station can be biased toward the first position. When biasedaccordingly, the first moveable portion assumes the first position inthe absence of external pressure. Similarly, the second moveable portionof the second mounting station can biased toward the first position suchthat the second moveable portion assumes the first position in theabsence of external pressure.

Advantageously with respect to the foregoing embodiment, the firstmoveable portion is moveable from the first position to a secondposition by a first application of manual pressure. In the secondposition, the first stop is positioned to allow the first interlockingportion to disengage from the first mounting station. Upon release ofthe first application of manual pressure, the first moveable portionreturns to the first position. Similarly, the second moveable portion ismoveable from the first position to a second position by a secondapplication of manual pressure. In the second position, the second stopis positioned to allow the second interlocking portion to disengage fromthe second mounting station. Upon release of the second application ofmanual pressure, the second moveable portion returns to the firstposition.

The biasing of the first moveable portion and the biasing of the secondmoveable portion can be caused by a first spring and a second spring,respectively.

According to an embodiment, the first moveable portion and the secondmoveable portion are configured to resist movement toward the secondposition when the bed extender moves so as to bring at least a portionof the bed extender into contact with the first stop or the second stop.Thus, this embodiment resists disengagement of the first interlockingportion from the first mounting station and disengagement of the secondinterlocking portion from the second mounting station.

In one embodiment, there is provided a vehicle bed extender mountingstation. The vehicle bed extender mounting station is configured to befixed with respect to a first upstanding side panel or a secondupstanding side panel on a vehicle having an open storage bed having arear end, the first upstanding side panel, the second upstanding sidepanel to an opposite side of said bed and a tailgate. The mountingstation comprises a stationary portion and a moveable portion. Thestationary portion is configured to be attached to the first upstandingside panel or the second upstanding side panel so as to fix the mountingstation with respect to the first upstanding side panel or the secondupstanding side panel. The moveable portion is attached to thestationary portion. The moveable portion is moveable with respect to thestationary portion and comprises a handle and a stop. The moveableportion is biased toward a first position in which the stop and thestationary portion cooperate to engage an interlocking portion of amount of the vehicle bed extender so as to secure the vehicle bedextender against detachment from the mounting station. The moveableportion is further configured to assume, upon a manual application ofpressure to the handle, a second position in which the interlockingportion can be disengaged from the mounting station so as to allow thevehicle bed extender to be detached from the mounting station. Themoveable portion returns to the first position upon release of theapplication of manual pressure. The moveable portion is configured tomove toward the first position when the interlocking portion comes intocontact with the stop such that the moveable portion and the stationaryportion cooperate to resist detachment of the vehicle bed extender as aresult of a movement of the interlocking member without a concurrentapplication of manual pressure to the handle.

In the mounting station of the foregoing embodiment, the stationaryportion can further comprise a stationary cusp, a lower curved portion,and a vertical portion. The stationary cusp, the lower curved portion,and the stop cooperate to define a circle through about 300 degrees whenthe moveable portion is in the first position. The interlocking portionis substantially circular in shape and has an outer diameter that isjust smaller than the inner diameter of the circle defined by thestationary cusp, the lower curved portion, and the stop. A maximumdistance between the vertical portion and the stationary cusp is largerthan the outer diameter such that when the moveable portion is in thesecond position the interlocking portion can pass between the stationarycusp and the vertical wall without such passage being impaired by thestop.

The mounting station's moveable portion can further comprise a springand the stationary portion and the moveable portion can be attached at apivot. In this embodiment, rotation of the moveable portion about thepivot in a first direction causes the moveable portion to assume thefirst position and rotation about the pivot in a second directionopposite to the first direction causes the moveable portion to assumethe second position. Furthermore, the spring is configured to resist anyforces exerted on the stop that would, in the absence of the spring,cause the moveable portion to rotate about the pivot in the seconddirection.

According to one embodiment, a method is described for an individual tomount a vehicle bed extender on a vehicle having an open storage bedhaving a rear end, a first upstanding side panel to one side of saidbed, a second upstanding side panel to an opposite side of said bed anda tailgate, a first mounting station fixed with respect to said firstupstanding panel, and a second mounting station fixed with respect tosaid second upstanding panel. The method comprises: providing agenerally U-shaped vehicle bed extender, said vehicle bed extenderhaving a first side wall, a second side wall, a connecting wallextending between said first side wall and said second side wall, afirst mount with a first interlocking portion secured to said first sidewall, and a second mount with a second interlocking portion secured tosaid second side wall; moving a moveable portion of said first mountingstation and a moveable portion of said second mounting station such thatsaid moveable portions are in a first position that allows said firstmounting station to engage one of said first interlocking portion andsaid second interlocking portion and allows said second mounting stationto engage the other of said first interlocking portion and said secondinterlocking portion; positioning said first side wall and said secondside wall between said first side panel and said second side panel, suchthat said first interlocking portion is positioned above but not engagedby one of said first mounting station and said second mounting stationand said second interlocking portion is positioned above but not engagedby the other of said first mounting station and said second mountingstation, so that said connecting wall is in substantially verticallyaligned over said tailgate rearward of said rear end of said bed andsaid extender provides access from above to a space between said firstside wall and said second side wall; moving said bed extendersubstantially downward without substantially changing said substantialvertical alignment of said connecting wall, such moving causing saidfirst mounting station of said first side panel to engage one of saidfirst interlocking portion and said second interlocking portion, andcausing said second mounting station of said second side panel to engagethe other of said first interlocking portion and said secondinterlocking portion, so that said bed extender is in a first mountingposition with said connecting wall in a substantially vertical positionover said tailgate rearward of said rear end of said bed and saidextender provides access from above to a space between said first sidewall and said second side wall; and moving said moveable portion of saidfirst mounting station and said moveable portion of said second mountingstation such that said moveable portions are in a second position thatprevents disengagement of said first mounting station to one of saidfirst interlocking portion and said second interlocking portion andprevents disengagement of said second mounting station from the other ofsaid first interlocking portion and said second interlocking portion.

In one embodiment, the foregoing method further comprises moving saidbed extender from said first mounting position to a second mountingposition in which said connecting wall is in a substantially verticalposition over said rear end of said bed and forward of said tailgate andsaid extender provides access from above to a space between said firstside wall and said second side wall. In an embodiment, moving the bedextender from the first mounting position comprises rotating the bedextender about an axis.

In one embodiment, there is provided a vehicle bed extender for use on avehicle having an open storage bed having a rear end, a first upstandingside panel to one side of said bed, a second upstanding side panel to anopposite side of said bed and a tailgate, a first mounting station fixedwith respect to said first upstanding panel, and a second mountingstation fixed with respect to said second upstanding panel. The bedextender comprises a first side wall, a second side wall, a connectingwall, a first mount with a first interlocking portion secured to thefirst side wall, and a second mount with a second interlocking portionsecured to the second side wall. The connecting wall extends between thefirst side wall and the second side wall. Furthermore, the vehicle bedextender is configured to be installed by an individual in accordancewith one of the methods outlined in the foregoing two paragraphs.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features of the invention will now be described inconnection with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the truck bedextender of the present invention mounted on a vehicle in a firstposition.

FIG. 2 is a enlarged partial perspective view of the vehicle and truckbed extender of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is an enlarged sectional view of the mount of the truck bedextender of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged perspective view of a belt and buckle lockingdevice of the truck bed extender of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a partial sectional view illustrating the pivoting of thetruck bed extender of FIG. 1 from a first position (shown in phantom) toa second position.

FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the truck bed extender and vehicle of FIG.1 in a second position.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the truck bed extender of FIG. 1illustrating its use as a bench.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the truck bed extender and vehicle ofFIG. 1 showing the truck bed extender in a third position.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a female element or bracket of amounting mechanism for the extender, in accordance with a secondpreferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a front elevational view of the bracket of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a side elevational view of the bracket of FIG. 9.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a mount, including a male element, ofthe mounting mechanism of the second embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a combination mount and strut inaccordance with a third preferred embodiment.

FIG. 13A is a perspective view of a combination mount and strut inaccordance with a fourth preferred embodiment.

FIG. 14 is an end elevational view of a male element of the mount andstrut of FIG. 13.

FIG. 14A is an end elevational view a male element of the mount andstrut of FIG. 13A.

FIG. 15 is a front elevational view of an alternative female element orbracket for use with the mounts of FIG. 12 or 13.

FIG. 16 is a front elevational view of another alternative femaleelement or bracket for use with the mounts of FIG. 12 or 13.

FIG. 16A is a front elevational view of a female element, bracket, ormounting station for use with the mounts of FIG. 12, 13, or 13A

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the bracket of FIG. 16.

FIG. 17A is a perspective view of the mounting station of FIG. 16A.

FIG. 17B is an exploded persective view showing the components of themounting station of FIG. 16A.

FIG. 17C is a rear elevational view of the mounting station of FIG. 17A.

FIG. 18 is a enlarged partial perspective view of a vehicle andalternative bed extender.

FIG. 19 is a top plan view of the bed extender of FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 is a front elevational view of the bed extender of FIG. 18.

FIGS. 21-25 are schematic views illustrating the mounting of theextender of FIG. 18.

FIGS. 21A-25A are corresponding schematic views illustrating theposition of the bracket and male member during the mounting of theextender of FIG. 18.

FIGS. 21B and 22B are schematic views illustrating the mounting of theextender using the alternative mounts and mounting stations of FIGS. 13Aand 16A.

FIGS. 21C and 22C are corresponding schematic views illustrating theposition of the mounting station and male member during the mounting ofthe extender using the alternative mounts and mounting stations of FIGS.13A and 16A.

FIG. 26 illustrates an alternative mount, which avoids the need fordrilling of additional holes in the vehicle.

FIGS. 27 a-27 b illustrate an alternative connector having a buckleconfiguration.

FIGS. 28-33 illustrate an alternative connector.

FIGS. 34-37 illustrate an alternative holder pair.

FIGS. 38-41 illustrate an alternative bracket and combination mount,strut and interlock.

FIGS. 42-45 are corresponding schematic views of the bracket, upperholder, latch and interlock of FIG. 38.

FIGS. 46 and 47 illustrate the mounting of the extender of FIG. 18 usingan alternative fastener.

FIGS. 48-50 illustrate the alternative fastener of FIGS. 46 and 47.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The preferred embodiment of a multi-purpose apparatus or truck bedextender 11 will now be described with reference to the figures.Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the truck bed extender 11 is shown mountedon a truck 13 having a cab 15 to the rear of which is a storage bed 17.The storage bed 17 has a front end 19 and a rear end 21. The front end19 of the storage bed is defined by a front upstanding panel 23 and thesides of the storage bed are defined by a first side upstanding panel 25and a second side upstanding panel 27. The first side upstanding panel25 defines a first forward mounting station or aperture 29 and a firstrearward mounting station or aperture 31 (FIG. 3), the purpose andlocation of which will be discussed in greater detail below. Likewise,the second side upstanding panel 27 defines a second forward aperture(not shown) and a second rearward aperture (not shown).

At the rear end 21 of the storage bed 17 is a tailgate 37. The tailgatehas a hinge end 39 and a distal end 41. The tailgate 37 defines a planarinner surface 43 extending between the hinge end 39 and distal end 41 ofthe tailgate. The tailgate 37 further comprises a first lock mechanism(not shown) which mates with a first latch 47 mounted on the rear end ofthe first upstanding panel 23. A tailgate 37 further includes a secondlock mechanism 49 which interlocks with a second latch (not shown)mounted on the second side upstanding panel 27. The first lock mechanismand second lock mechanism 49 are selectably releasable by means of arelease actuator (not shown) mounted at the outer surface of the distalend of the tailgate.

The truck bed extender 11 includes a frame 53 having a first side wall55, a second side wall 57 and a connecting wall 59 extending between thefirst side wall 55 and second side wall 57. The frame 53 and, therefore,the connecting wall 59 define a horizontal span H which is slightly lessthan the distance between the first side upstanding panel 25 and secondside upstanding panel 27 of the truck 13. The frame 53 is formed by afirst L-shaped section 61, a second L-shaped section 63 and a pluralityof connecting sections 65.

Both L-shaped sections 61, 63 comprise a generally L-shaped uppercross-beam 67, a generally L-shaped lower cross-beam 69 and a generallyL-shaped middle cross-beam 71. Advantageously, each cross-beam comprisesa single piece of 1.5 inch outer diameter, 0.058 inch wall thickness,6061-T6 aluminum tubing.

The cross-beams 67, 69 and 71 are advantageously connected by an outervertical strut 73, an inner vertical strut 75 and a middle verticalstrut 77. The struts 73, 75, 77 desirably extend through mating openingsin the cross-beams 67, 69, 71 and comprise one inch outer diameter,0.058 inch wall thickness, 6061-T6 aluminum tubing. The use of angledaluminum tubing provides for high strength, low weight and ease ofmanufacture.

As shown in FIG. 2, the inner strut 75 and middle strut 77 are desirablypositioned along the connecting wall 59 and the outer strut 73 isdesirably positioned along the distal end of the side wall.Advantageously, the inner strut 75 is longer than the other struts andprojects downward from the lower crossbeam 69 so as to define an innerstrut foot 79.

The first L-shaped section 61 and second L-shaped section 63 areconnected by the plurality of connecting sections 65. Specifically,there is an upper connecting section, a lower connecting section and amiddle connecting section. Desirably, the connecting sections comprise a7 inch long, 1-⅜ inch outer diameter, 0.058 inch wall thickness, 6061-T6aluminum tube. The connecting sections are slidable within and,desirably forms a slip-fit with, the first L-shaped section 61 andsecond L-shaped section 63, and are each desirably locked in place by apair of locking screws 87.

Approximately ⅝ inch from the outer end of each middle crossbeam 71 is a0.328 inch diameter horizontal bore mounted over the middle crossbeam 71aligned with the bore is a mount 91 having a body 93 which defines athroughbore. The body has an annular middle portion with generallydiametrically opposed cylindrical projections corresponding to thethroughbore. The mounts 91 are secured respectively to the firstL-shaped section and second L-shaped section so that the throughboresare coaxially aligned. The mount 91 further includes a generallycylindrical male member 95 having a cone-shaped engagement end 97 and anactuating end 99. A handle 101 is threaded on the actuating end 99 andthe male member 95 is mounted for reciprocal movement within the body bya spring 103 surrounding the male member within the body 93 of themount. The precompressed spring desirably has one end biased against thebody 93 of the mount and another end which is biased against a washer105 which is secured against outward movement relative the male member95 by a C clip 107. Referring now to FIG. 2, a buckle 109 is secured toeach of the lower crossbeams 69 by means of a strap 111. As shown inFIG. 4, the buckle 109 is generally rectangular with a narrower upperportion and a wider lower portion. The buckle 109 desirably forms a pairof parallel slots 113 for receiving the strap 111 and a larger opening115 for mating with one of the lock mechanisms 49 of the vehicle.

The installation and operation of the truck bed extender 11 will now bedescribed.

When it is desired to ready a vehicle for use with the truck bedextender 11, the truck bed extender 11 can be placed in the desiredposition on the tailgate 37 so that the distal end of the first sidewall 55 and distal end of the second side wall 57 extend along the innersurface of the rear end of the first side upstanding panel 25 and thesecond side upstanding panel 27, respectively. When the truck bedextender 11 is in the desired position, its width can be adjusted bysliding the first or second L-shaped sections 61 and 63 relative theconnecting section 65 and securing it in position by means of one of thelocking screws 87. Once the extender 11 has been adjusted so that it hasthe desired horizontal span H, the handle 101 of each of the mounts 91can be pressed outward so that the engagement end 97 of the male member95 presses hard against the respective first side upstanding panel 25and second side upstanding panel 27 to mark the location for drillingthe first rearward aperture 31 and second rearward aperture 35. Thisapproach eliminates difficulties in determining the proper position ofthe apertures 31 and 35. Once the first rearward aperture 31 and secondrearward aperture 35 are drilled into the first side upstanding panel 25and second side upstanding panel 27, respectively, the truck bedextender 11 is ready for operation. Importantly, no additional bracketsor modifications are required, so that when the truck bed extender isnot in use, there are no brackets in the way, and virtually no cosmeticchange to the appearance of the truck 13.

In use, the truck bed extender is simply positioned on the tailgate 37so that the engagement ends 97 of the mounts 91 extend through therespective first rearward mounting station or aperture 31 and secondrearward mounting station or aperture (not shown). The surface of eachmount 91 (mount surface) engages the surface of each mounting station 31(station surface). In this position, the truck bed extender provides astrong, secure retaining device while the openings between therespective crossbeams and struts permit the flow of air to minimize airresistance. If it is desired to remove the truck bed extender 11, thehandles 101 secured to each of the male members 95 are simply pulledinward causing engagement ends 97 of the male members 95 to retract fromthe first rearward aperture 31 and second rearward aperture 35 and thetruck bed extender can be removed.

As disclosed herein, while only one mount 91 is illustrated and labelledin the Figures, the bed extender comprises two mounts, one on each side.For ease of understanding, in this paragraph the illustrated mount 91 isreferred to as a first mount 91, while the mount that is not shown isreferred to as a second mount. Similarly for ease of understanding, themounting station to which the first mount 91 is attached, asillustrated, is referred to as a first mounting station, and themounting station that is not shown is referred to as a second mountingstation. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the bed extender can be installedsuch that the first mount 91 aligns with and engages the first mountingstation 31 and the second mount aligns with and engages the secondmounting station. FIGS. 1-6 make it apparent, however, to a person ofordinary skill in the art, that the first mount 91 can just as easily bealigned with and engage the second mount station, and the second mountcan just as easily be aligned with and engage the first mounting station31. It is apparent from FIGS. 1, 2, 5, and 6 that the first mount 91 islocated at the same vertical distance from the truck bed whether thefirst mount 91 is positioned near the first mounting station or whetherthe first mount 91 is positioned near the second mounting station byrotating the bed extender horizontally 180 degrees. Furthermore, it isapparent from FIG. 3 that the mounts 91 are symmetrical and accordinglycan engage either of the mounting stations. Accordingly, it is apparent,from FIGS. 1-6, to a person of ordinary skill in the art, that one candetach the bed extender, rotate the bed extender horizontally 180degrees such that the first mount 91 and the second mount switch sides,and install the bed extender such that the first mount 91 engages thesecond mounting station and the second mount engages the first mountingstation 31.

The truck bed extender can be further secured against undesired rotationabout the mounts 91 by means of the buckle 109 and strap 111, by simplysecuring the buckles 109 in the first lock mechanism (not shown) andsecond lock mechanism 49, respectively, of the tailgate 37.Advantageously, the buckles are configured so that they are secured inplace by the lock mechanisms and are selectably releasable by thetailgate's own release actuator.

Importantly, in the event it is desired to use the truck bed extender 11to form a rear storage compartment, as shown in FIG. 5, the truck bedextender can be quickly and easily pivoted about the coaxial malemembers 95 so that the connecting wall 59 is in a vertical positionspaced inward from the rear end 21 of the storage bed 17 and, therefore,the tailgate 37. In this position, the truck bed extender 11 provides aconvenient open upper-ended storage compartment to secure grocery bagsor other items against movement within the truck bed.

Advantageously, the truck bed extender 11 is extremely strong, but atthe same time lightweight. In addition, because its structuralconfiguration lends itself to construction with a minimum of parts, theextender can be manufactured at a relatively low cost.

Advantageously, as shown in FIG. 7, the truck bed extender provides aconvenient work or picnic bench when it is removed from the vehicle.Specifically, when the distal ends of the first side wall 55 and secondside wall 57 are placed on the ground, one or more individuals can siton the connecting wall 59.

Finally, as shown in FIG. 8, the truck bed extender 11 is also capableof forming a forward storage compartment adjacent the cab 15 of thetruck 13. Such a position is often desirable when transporting pets, dueto the proximity to the driver and the wind resistance afforded by thecab 15. If it is desired to use the truck bed extender to form such aforward storage compartment, a first forward aperture 29 and a secondforward aperture (not shown) are desirably formed in the first sideupstanding panel 25 and second side upstanding panel 27, respectively bylocating and drilling the apertures in a manner similar to that of therearward apertures 31 and 35. It is then a simple matter to place thetruck bed extender 11 in position so that the first side wall 55 andsecond side wall 57 extend forward from the connecting wall so that theconnecting wall 59 is spaced rearward from the front upstanding panel 23of the truck 13. Again, removal is easily accomplished by simply pullingthe handles 101 inward so that engagement ends 97 the male members 95are retracted within the mounts 91 so that they are withdrawn from thefirst forward aperture 29 and second forward aperture (not shown).

Referring now to FIGS. 9 to 11, a mounting station, such as a femalemember or bracket 120 is illustrated in accordance with a secondpreferred embodiment. The bracket 120 includes a plurality of screwholes 122 which facilitate mounting the bracket 120 to the panels 25, 27(FIG. 1) of the truck 13. Preferably, four such brackets 120 are mountedby screws through the screw holes 122 to the panels 25, 27 at positionscentered about positions of the forward aperture 29 and rearwardaperture 31 of the first embodiment (FIGS. 1-8).

The mounting station or bracket 120 has an upper edge 124 which definesan aperture or slot with an upper opening and a relatively more narrowlower opening. In the illustrated embodiment, the edge 124 includes apair of generally horizontal upper surfaces 126. A pair of slantedportions 128 extend inwardly and downwardly from the horizontal portion126, each terminating at a cusp 129. A lower curved portion 130 definesa generally circular upper station surface and extends downwardly fromand joins the cusps 129 to one another.

Advantageously, the curved portion 130 defines greater than 180E of acircle, and is illustrated defining about 300E of a circle. Accordingly,the slot defined by the upper edge 124 is more narrow at the cusps 129than at the widest point of the curved portion 130 below.

With reference to FIG. 12, a mount 140 is shown, including a body 142which defines a generally horizontal cylindrical bore. As with the mount91 of the first embodiment (FIG. 3), a mount 140 can be fitted over eachmiddle crossbeam 71 (FIG. 2) approximately ⅝ inch from the outer end.

A male element 144 extends from the body 142. The male element 144, inturn, includes an axle portion 146 and a relatively wider lockingportion 148, illustrated as a disk. The axle portion 146 has twogenerally horizontal, opposed flat sides 150 and two opposed curvedsides 152 (one of each shown). The maximum spacing between the opposedflat sides 150 defines a first width of the axle portion 146. The firstwidth is less than the spacing between the cusps 129 on the bracket 120(FIGS. 9-11). The maximum spacing between the opposed curved sides 152define a second width between them, where the second width is greaterthan the spacing between the cusps 129 on the bracket 120. Preferably,the curved sides 152 have the same curvature as the curved portion 130of the mounting station or bracket 120 (FIGS. 9-11) with a slightlysmaller radius of curvature, such that the surface of the curved sides152 defines a mount surface that engages the station surface of themounting station or bracket 120.

The extender of the second preferred embodiment (not shown) willresemble the extender 11 of FIG. 2, except including a mount 140 at theend of each middle cross-beam. Accordingly, the following discussionwill refer to components of second preferred embodiment by referencenumerals assigned to like components of the first preferred embodiment(FIGS. 1-8).

In mounting the extender 11 to the truck 13 (which already has brackets140 mounted thereto), a user can lift the extender 11 with theconnecting wall 59 facing up and the side walls 55, 57 extendingdownwardly. The axle portions 146 are then aligned with the slots of thebrackets 140. In this position, the flat sides 150 of the axle portions146 are generally vertical. The extender 11 is then lowered. Since thefirst width is narrower than the spacing between the cusps 129 of thebracket 120, each axle portion 146 fits between the cusps 129 of acorresponding bracket 120. The 148 fits into the wider upper openingdefined by the horizontal upper surfaces 126.

As the extender 11 is lowered, a curved side 152 of the male element 144contacts the curved portion 130 of the corresponding female element orbracket 120. The extender 11 is then rotated outward or inward about 90E(see FIG. 5). The curved sides 152 of the axle portions 146 mate withand journal within the curved portion 130 of the bracket 120. When thusrotated, the cusps 129 prevent the axles 146 from lifting out ofbrackets 120, as will be understood by one of skill in the art. Toremove the extender 11, the extender 11 must be rotated until the flatsides 150 of the axle portions 146 are approximately vertical, and canslip past the cusps 129 on the brackets 120.

Advantageously, the extender 11 of the second preferred embodiment canbe installed or removed without retracting any locking mechanism andwithout scratching the paint on the interior of the truck bed 17.Accordingly, the users hands can be used solely to lift and rotate theextender 11.

With reference to FIGS. 13 and 14, a combination mount and strut 140 ais shown with a male element 144 a, which can be similar to the maleelement 144 of FIG. 12. By performing both functions of supporting thecross-beams and mounting the extender, this combination mount and strut140 a can simplify the extender design and reduce part numbers.

With reference to FIG. 15, an alternative female mounting element orbracket 120 b is shown, including an upwardly extending arm 160, a leftscrew hole 162, and right screw hole 164 for mounting the bracket 120 bto a truck panel 27. It will be understood that a second bracket wouldbe provided in a mirror image of that illustrate for the opposite panel25 of the truck. The arm 160 is oriented such that a curved portion 130b (in which a male mounting element can journal) is appropriatelypositioned while the left screw hole 162 aligns with a pre-existingscrew hole in the truck panel 25 or 27, such as the lower hole for thetailgate latch mechanism 47. This arrangement advantageously reduces thenumber of screw holes required to be drilled in the truck panels, whilestill fixing the bracket 120 b in a unique position.

Furthermore, it is possible that the arm 160 could be extended furtherupward, and another screw hole provided in alignment with the upperlatch screw of the tailgate latch mechanism 47, thereby eliminating anyneed for a right screw hole.

FIGS. 16 and 17 illustrate yet another bracket 120 c, having two upperscrew holes 166 and one lower screw hole 168. It will be recognized thatthis arrangement reduces by one the number of screw holes required to bedrilled, relative to the bracket 120 of FIGS. 9-11.

FIGS. 13A, 14A, 16A, and 17A illustrate another mount 440 and anotherbracket or mounting station 420 for receiving the mount 440. Referringto FIG. 13A, a mount 440 for mounting the bed extender on the mountingstation 420 is described, according to an embodiment. As will beappreciated by a skilled artisan in light of this disclosure, the mount440 of FIG. 13A has, with a few exceptions, the same components,dimensions, and configuration as the mount 140 a of FIG. 13. Indeed, askilled artisan will appreciate, in light of this disclosure, that themount 140 a can be received into and used with the mounting station 420of FIG. 16A. The mount 440, in one embodiment, has a male element 444with an axle portion 446. In one embodiment, as illustrated, the axleportion 446 of FIG. 13A is generally uniformly circular, (e.g. having agenerally uniform diameter).

The interaction between the mounting station 440 and a mounting station420 is now described in general terms. Additionally detail regarding themounting station 420 is provided below with reference to FIGS. 16A and17A. Preferably, the diameter of the axle portion 446 is dimensioned soas to interact with a lower curved portion 430 of the mounting station420, such that the axle portion 446 can be received by or removed fromthe lower curved portion 430 when a lever 438 of the mounting station isin an open position but the axle portion 446 cannot be received by norremoved from the lower curved portion 430 when the lever 438 is in aclosed position. Accordingly, a person can mount the bed extender on avehicle by moving each lever 438 (on either side of the vehicle) to anopen position, positioning the axle portion 446 of each mount 440 suchthat the lower curved portion 430 surrounds the axle portion 446, andlocking each mount 440 into place by moving the lever 438 to a closedposition.

As illustrated by FIGS. 16A and 17A, the mounting station 420 comprisesa stationary portion 421 and a moveable portion or lever 438. In oneembodiment, the stationary portion 421 comprises two upper screw holes466 and one lower screw hole 468 for attachment to a vehicle asdescribed with respect to other embodiments described herein. Thestationary portion 421 further comprises upper surfaces 426, astationary slanting portion 428 a, a stationary cusp 429 a, a lowercurved portion 430, and a vertical portion 432. The dimensions, shaping,and configuration of the upper surfaces 426, the stationary slantingportion 428 a, the stationary cusp 429 a, and the lower curved portion430 are substantially the same as the upper surfaces 126, the upper edge124, the slanting porition 128, the cusp 129, and the lower curvedportion 130 as disclosed herein with reference to FIGS. 9, 10, 16, and17. A skilled artisan will appreciate, in light of this disclosure, thatembodiments exist in which the dimensions, shaping, and configuration ofthe foregoing components are varied, while not departing from theprinciples of the invention or the scope of the invention disclosedherein.

Referring to FIG. 17B, the lower curved portion 430 is substantiallycircular in shape beginning at the stationary cusp 429 a throughapproximately 260 degrees. At approximately 260 degrees from thestationary cusp 429 a, the lower curved portion 430 extendssubstantially vertically toward and substantially perpendicular to thesubstantially horizontal upper surfaces 426. A skilled artisan willappreciate in light of the figures and this disclosure that the verticalportion 432 need not be perfectly aligned vertically nor perpendicularto the upper surfaces 426. While the lower curved portion 430 defines acircular shape through approximately 260 degrees only, the term“diameter” is used herein as a quantity of the lower curved portion 430,and refers to the diameter of an imaginary circle defined by extendingthe circular shape of the lower curved portion 430 through 360 degrees.In one embodiment, the stationary cusp 429 a and the vertical portion432 are spaced apart from each other a distance that is greater thanthis diameter. Such measurement of the distance between the stationarycusp 429 a and the vertical portion 432 is taken from an inner tip ofthe stationary cusp 429 a to an inner surface of the vertical portion432 along a line parallel to the upper surfaces 426. A skilled artisanwill appreciate in light of this disclosure that because the distancebetween the stationary cusp 429 a and the vertical portion 432 isgreater than the diameter of the lower curved portion 430, a circularobject with a diameter just smaller than the diameter of the lowercurved portion 430 is able to pass between the stationary cusp 429 a andthe vertical portion 432. Advantageously, the diameter of the axleportion 446 of the mount 440 is just smaller than the diameter of thelower curved portion 430, such that when the lever 438 is in the openposition, the axle portion 446 can pass between the stationary cusp 429a and the vertical portion 432 and be received within the lower curvedportion 430, but that when the lever 438 is in the closed position, theaxle portion 446 is prevented from becoming disengaged from the lowercurved portion 430.

As also illustrated by FIG. 17B, the moveable portion or lever 438comprises a handle 439, a spring 441, a groove 436, a moveable slantedportion 428 b, a moveable cusp or stop 429 b, a lever cap 450, and apivot 452. The pivot 452 connects the stationary portion 421 to thelever 438 and allows the lever 438 to rotate about the pivot 452. Thegroove 436 interacts with the guide pin 434 of the stationary portion421 to define two positions, a closed position and an open position ofthe lever 438 with respect to the stationary portion 421. In a closedposition, as illustrated by FIG. 22C, the moveable cusp 429 b ispositioned so as to provide a cusp that is symmetrical to and on anopposing side to the stationary cusp 429 a. In this position, the lowercurved portion 430 and the moveable cusp 429 b cooperate to define asubstantially circular shape beginning at the stationary cusp 429 athrough approximately 300 degrees. Accordingly, in this position, thedistance between the stationary cusp 429 a and the moveable cusp 429 bis smaller than the distance between the stationary cusp 429 a and thevertical portion 432. In this position, the moveable cusp 429 b and thestationary cusp 429 a cooperate to prevent the axle portion 446 of themount 440 from passing between the stationary cusp 429 a and themoveable cusp 429 b. Accordingly, as illustrated, in this position themoveable cusp 429 b and the stationary cusp 429 a lock the bed extenderinto place such that it will not spontaneously become detached from thevehicle.

In an open position, as illustrated by FIG. 21C, the moveable cusp 429 bis positioned such that the distance between the stationary cusp 429 aand the moveable cusp 429 b is greater than the diameter of the lowercurved portion 430. Accordingly, in this position, the stationary cusp429 a and the moveable cusp 429 b allow the axle portion 446 of themount 440 to pass between the stationary cusp 429 a and the moveablecusp 429 b. In one embodiment, the moveable cusp 429 b, in the openposition, is positioned such that the distance between the stationarycusp 429 a and the moveable cusp 429 b is at least as great as thedistance between the stationary cusp 429 a and the vertical portion 432.Accordingly, in this position, the stationary cusp 429 a and thevertical portion 432 allow the axle portion 446 to pass between thestationary cusp 429 a and the vertical portion 432, as if the lever 438were not even attached to the stationary portion 421.

Referring to FIGS. 21B, 22B, 21C, and 22C, one method of mounting a bedextender to a vehicle is described. As illustrated by FIGS. 21B and 21C,a person readies the bed extender by aligning the mounts 440 with themounting stations 420. The person operates the lever 438, moving thelever 438 to the open position. The person moves the mounts 440 downwardsuch that the axle portions 446 engage the corresponding lower curvedportions 430 of the mounting stations 420. As illustrated by FIGS. 22Band 22C, the person operates the lever 438 or allows the lever 438 tomove to the closed position. Advantageously, with the lever 438 in theclosed position, the bed extender is secured against movement andagainst spontaneously detaching from the vehicle. Advantageously, thisembodiment of the mounts 440 and the mounting stations 420 allow the bedextender to be installed by aligning the bed extender in a horizontalposition (e.g. with the bed extender extended over the tailgate or overthe truck bed) and moving the bed extender straight down to be engagedin the horizontal position. Accordingly, this embodiment does notrequire installing the bed extender first in a vertical position andthen rotating the bed extender into a horizontal position. A skilledartisan will appreciate, in light of this disclosure, however, that aperson can install the bed extender first in a vertical position andthen rotate it into a horizontal position, and there is no requirementthat either method be used to the exclusion of the other.

Advantageously, the bed extender can be easily detached and dismountedfrom the vehicle by essentially reversing the foregoing actions. Aperson operates the lever 438 to move the lever 438 to the openposition. The person moves the bed extender upward to disengage the axleportion 446 of the mount 440 from the mounting station 420. The personallows the lever 438 to return to the closed position while the axleportion 446 is disengaged from the mounting station 420.

Referring to FIG. 17C, the spring 441 biases the lever 438 to the closedposition, such that the lever 438 assumes the closed position in theabsence of external pressure, such as from manual movement of the lever438. The lever 438 is configured such that a person can manually movethe lever 438 to the open position. Advantageously, however, the lever438 cannot easily be moved to an open position by random externalforces, such as, for example, typical shocks caused by driving overuneven terrain. For example, the lever 438 is designed not to move tothe open position in the event that a shock causes the axle portion 446of the mount 440 to contact and exert a force upon the moveable cusp 429b. Instead, a force directed toward the upper surfaces 426 causes thelever 438 to attempt to rotate about a pivot 452 in the direction of thearrow 460. As illustrated, however, the guide pin 434 interacts with thegroove 436 to prevent such rotation, holding the moveable cusp 429 b inits closed position. Furthermore, because the spring 441 tends to holdthe lever 438 in its closed position, common random external forces thatmay be exerted on the lever 438 that would cause the lever to rotate ina direction opposite to the arrow 460 are generally not large enough toovercome the spring 441 and move the lever 438 into an open position.Advantageously, therefore, accidental detachment of the bed extenderfrom the vehicle is unlikely.

Referring to FIG. 18, an alternative vehicle bed extender 11 b is shownmounted to a truck 13 having a tailgate 37 including a hinge end 39 anda distal end 41 and defining an inner surface 43. The bed extenderincludes a first side wall 169, a second side wall 170, and a connectingwall 171. As with the extender 11 discussed above, the walls are formedby a first L-shaped section 172 and a second L-shaped section 173connected by a plurality of straight connecting sections 174. As in theextender 11 of FIG. 1, the sections are formed from L-shaped andstraight pieces of tubing. Specifically, each L-shaped section includesa first cross beam 175, a second cross beam 176 and a third cross beam177. The cross beams and the straight sections 174 are connected byelongate vertical plastic struts. Significantly, the bed extender 11 bis shown with a first and a second locking strut which is a combinationmount and strut and 78, as previously described in connection with FIG.13. The extender 11 b also includes a first and second latching strut180 which is a combination interlock and strut, a first and secondbumper strut 182 which is a combination bumper and strut, and a firstand second simple strut 184. The struts 178, 180, 182 and 184 eachdefine cylindrical openings for receiving the tubular cross beams. Thestruts 178, 182 and 184 are clamped tightly around the cross beams bymeans of first, second, and third fasteners 186, 188, and 190,respectively. The first and second latch struts 180 define only twohorizontal bores and are secured to only the lower (when the truck bedextender is mounted over the tailgate) two cross members. Each latchstrut 180, or connector, defines an outer side 196 defining a mountingsurface to which is secured a interlock 200 defining an arm portion 202and an interlock portion 204. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS.18-25, the interlock portion 204 forms a cylinder. Significantly, thelatch struts 180 and, therefore, the interlock portion 204 is movabletoward the front and rear of the tailgate to ensure proper positioningwith respect to the existing tailgate locking mechanism.

The bumper strut 182 includes a first post 210 extending beyond theupper cross beam 175, which is provided with a first resilient bumper212 and a second post 214 extending below the lower cross member 177,which is provided with a second bumper 216.

Referring to FIG. 20, it will be appreciated that the simple struts 184are positioned so as to cover the seam 218 between the L-shaped crossbeams and the straight connecting sections.

As illustrated in FIG. 18 and 21-25, the tailgate is provided with afirst and second lock mechanism. As both lock mechanisms are mirrorimages of one another, only the second lock mechanism 222 need bedescribed. The second lock mechanism 222 is positioned within a notch223 in the tailgate. The lock mechanism 222 includes an interlockportion 224, which is controlled by a release actuator 226. As wellknown by those of skill in the art, the release actuator 226 typicallyoperates both the first and the second lock mechanisms. Importantly, thelocking mechanism described is a standard lock mechanism used on thevehicles to releasably secure the tailgate in an upright position. Thus,no customized lock mechanism is required.

Referring again to FIG. 18, a first holder 228 is mounted to the innersurface of the first upstanding panel 25 and a second holder 230 ismounted to the inner surface of the second upstanding panel 27. As thefirst holder 228 and second holder 230 are identical, only the firstholder 228 will be described. The first holder 228 has a body 232 whichis straddled by a pair of L-shaped flanges 234, which are used to spacethe body 232 from the inner surface of the panel 25 and to provide asurface to mount the holder 228 to the panel 25. The holder defines anupper edge 236, which in turn defines a U-shaped slot 238 having anupper open end and a lower closed end. The purpose of the holders 228and 230 will be described in detail below. Referring now to FIGS. 21 and21 a, the bed extender 11 b is shown disconnected from the truck 13. Thebed extender 116 is positioned with the connecting wall 171 beinghorizontal, the open ends of the extender 116 extending downward and themale members of the locking struts 178 being aligned in a vertical planewith the aperture of the bracket 120. Advantageously, the truck bedextender can be easily aligned in this manner by a single person bygrasping the bed extender in two locations spaced on either side of thecenter of gravity of the bed extender. As shown by the arrows in FIGS.21 and 22, the bed extender is then simply lowered vertically downwarduntil the axle portion fits between the cusps 129 of the bracket 120.Similarly, the locking portion fits into the wide opening defined by thehorizontal upper surfaces 126.

When the truck bed extender reaches the position shown in FIGS. 22 and22 a, the extender 11 b can be rotated outward or inward approximately90E. The curved sides 152 of the axle portions 146 mate with and journalwithin the curved portion of the bracket 120. When thus rotated, thecusps prevent the axles 146 from lifting out of the brackets 120, aswill be understood by one of skill in the art.

FIGS. 23 and 23 a show the truck bed extender rotated approximately 60Eoutward so that the axle portion is secured by the bracket 120.

As will be appreciated by FIGS. 23 and 24, as the bed extender 11 brotates downward, portion 204 of the second interlock 200 is receivedand retained by the interlock portion 224 of the second lock mechanism222 of the tailgate. Significantly, the vehicle bed extender isconfigured such that the only portions of the bed extender 11 b incontact with the tailgate 37 are the interlocks 200. That is, as bestseen in FIG. 24, when the bed extender is latched to the tailgate withthe connecting wall in an upright position, the side walls 169, 170 andthe connecting wall 171 are spaced above the tailgate 37. The bumperstruts 182 are provided with bumpers only for purposes of cushioning anycontact between the connecting wall and the tailgate, in the event thetailgate is jarred such as when the vehicle strikes a speed bump atexcessive speed. This positioning of the side walls and connecting wallsabove the tailgate prevents undesired vibration and rattling.

When it is desired to close the tailgate, it is a simple matter toactuate the release actuator 226, thereby releasing the interlockportions 204 permitting the extender 11 b to be rotated upward away fromthe tailgate about the pivot axis defined by the brackets 120 either to(1) a position where the connecting wall is parallel to the truck bed,so that the truck bed extender can be removed, by lifting it upward inthe direction opposite to the arrow shown in FIG. 21, or (2) a positionshown in FIGS. 25 and 25 a, where the interlock portion 204 of the bedextender is secured within the slot 238 of the holder 230. Again, as thebed extender is secured by the holders 228 and 230 above the vehiclebed, vibration and rattling is minimized. As shown in FIG. 25, in thisposition, the tailgate can be closed and latched in the usual manner.Referring now to FIG. 26, an alternative bracket 240 is illustrated.Significantly, the bracket 240 can be mounted on the vehicle solelythrough the use of an existing fastener 254 used to secure a tailgatesafety cable 256 to the side panel 25 of the truck. The first bracket240 includes a first section 242 extending parallel to the length of thetruck, a second section 244 extending perpendicular to the first sectionand a third section 246 extending parallel to the first section andperpendicular to the second section. The first section 242 defines aconnector hole 250 for receiving the fastener 254 used to mount theinner end of the tailgate safety cable 256 to the panel.

Advantageously, due to the configuration of the first bracket 240, noadditional fasteners are required to securely mount the bracket 240 tothe vehicle. Significantly, the sections cooperate to prevent therotation of the bracket about the axis of the connector hole 250 whenthe bracket 240 is mounted on the vehicle.

FIGS. 27 a and 27 b illustrate an alternative bed extender 11 c having alatching strut 260 including an interlock arm 262 having an interlockportion 264 defining a buckle arrangement. This interlock is used inconnection with the other major form of standard tailgate lockingmechanism, well known to those of skill in the art. Advantageously, theinterlock portion 264 provides the only contact between the extender 11c and the tailgate, thereby minimizing vibration and rattling.

FIGS. 28-33 illustrate an alternative connector 270 adapted to besecured to only the lower crossbeam of a bed extender 11 d. Theconnector 270 includes a bracket 271 and an interlock having an arm 272and an interlock portion 274. The bracket 271 includes a base 276 and aclamp 278 secured to the base by fasteners. As with the latch struts180, 260 described above, the connector has the advantage of beingmovable toward the front and rear of the tailgate to ensure properpositioning with respect to the existing tailgate latch mechanism.

FIGS. 34-37 illustrate holders 280, 282 mountable to the inner surfaceof the side panels to mate with and retain the interlock portion of aconnector, such as the latch strut 180.

FIGS. 38-41 illustrate an alternative bracket 290 and an alternativecombination first and second interlock and strut 300 which operates inthe same general manner as the bracket and combination interlock andstrut illustrated in FIGS. 18-26, with the notable exceptions that theholder is integrally formed with the mount and strut, and the holder isprovided with a lock mechanism, as will be described in detail below.

Referring now to FIGS. 38 and 39, the elongate bracket 290 is providedwith a screwhole 302 at each end. The bracket includes an upper raisedholder portion 304 and a lower raised station portion 306. The upperholder portion 304 and lower station portion 306 are separated byspacing flange 308. An upper mounting flange 310 which defines the upperscrewhole 302 is provided above the upper holder portion 304. A lowermounting flange 312 defining the lower screwhole 302 is provided belowthe lower station portion 306.

The lower station portion 306 forms an aperture 316 defined by an upperedge 318. The upper edge 318 includes an arcuate portion 320 whichdefines a pivot surface and a pair of slanted portions 322 which definea pair of guiding surfaces. As in prior designs, the upper spacing wall323 of the lower station portion 306 defines an opening for receivingthe larger end portion of a male member, as will be described below.

The upper holder portion 304 is similarly spaced outward from theflanges 308, 310 and 312. The upper holder portion 304 includes an edge324 which defines a U-shaped slot 326 having an open end 328 and aclosed end 330. A latch 332 is mounted to the upper holder portion 304by pivot pin 334.

As best seen in FIG. 40, the latch 332 has a generally C-shaped body 336and a release arm or lever 338. The body 336 further defines a mountinghole 340 opposite the release arm 338. Between the release arm 338 andthe mounting hole 340 is a generally U-shaped slot 342 including an openend and a closed end. The slot is formed by an edge which defines alocking surface 348 and an engagement surface 350.

Referring now to FIG. 41, the combination first and second interlock andstrut 300 will now be described. The combination first and secondinterlock and strut 300 has the same general configuration as thecombination interlock and strut 140 a illustrated in FIG. 13, withcertain exceptions. Specifically, the strut 300 includes three openings352 to receive the cross beams, and includes a first male member 354similar to the male element 144 previously described in connection withFIG. 12. The combination first and second interlock and strut 300differs from the combination interlock and strut of FIGS. 13-14 in thatit includes a second male member 356 extending from near the upper endof the combination first and second interlock and strut. The second malemember 356 includes a larger disc-shaped outer end portion 358 and asmaller cylindrical middle portion 360. The middle portion 360 defines acylindrical engagement surface 362.

A truck bed extender utilizing the combination first and secondinterlock and strut 300 and the bracket 290 is operated in a manner verysimilar to that previously described in connection with the extender,bracket and holder of FIGS. 18-26. As will be appreciated by one ofskill in the art, however, the bracket 290 is mounted on the insidevertical surface of one of the upright panels of the vehicle, such assecond panel 27, so that the lower station portion is positioned in thesame location as the station portion of the bracket 120. Advantageously,because the upper holder portion and lower station portion are formed asa single piece, the holder portion need not be separately positioned andmounted.

Another advantage of this design is illustrated in FIGS. 42-45, whichshow an enlarged view of that which has already been described in FIG.38. When the truck bed extender is rotated to the position shown in FIG.24, in addition to being locked against radial movement about the pivotaxis by the lower station portion 306 as shown in FIG. 38, thecylindrical engagement surface 362 of the smaller middle portion 360 ofthe second male member 356, seen in FIG. 38, enters into the open end328 of the U-shaped slot 326 and presses against the body 336 of thelatch 332. This causes the latch 332 to rotate about the pivot pin 334as seen in FIGS. 43 and 44 and in phantom in FIG. 38 until thecylindrical engagement surface is locked in place by the latch 332, asillustrated in FIG. 45. Specifically, the locking surface 348 of thebody 336 of the latch 332 prevents the cylindrical engagement surface362 of the second male member 356, as seen in FIG. 38, from beingremoved through the open end 328 of the slot 326 of the upper holderportion 304.

When it is desired to release the lock and rotate the truck bed extenderso that it is in the position shown in FIG. 25, the release arm 338 ofthe latch 332 is pushed toward the upper holder portion 304 which, dueto its configuration, causes the latch 332 to pivot about the pivot pin334 as shown in phantom in FIG. 38. Advantageously, the release of thislock member can be achieved through the use of a single finger.

As will be appreciated, this arrangement provides a number ofsignificant advantages. As discussed above, the use of a single piece todefine both the holder and station avoid the need for a separatepositioning and mounting operation. Further, the use of a separate lockavoids potential wear and tear on the tailgate latch mechanism.Importantly, the automatic nature of the lock ensures that when thetruck bed extender is rotated into position over the tailgate, with theconnecting wall in a vertical position, the truck bed extender will belocked in place automatically. This essentially eliminates the need forthe user to remember to lock the extender into position over thetailgate. Advantageously, the connecting wall of the truck bed extenderis locked so as to be spaced above the tailgate avoiding vibration. Atthe same time, because the extender locks into position, the truck bedextender secures the tailgate against significant upward movement in theevent the vehicle rides over a large bump.

Again, the particular arrangement is particularly desirable in that onlyone combination first and second interlock and strut 300 need be used tolock the bed extender in place. The other side can utilize the standardmounting bracket 120. This is desirable not only from an assembly andcost standpoint, but also facilitates the unlocking of the extender. Inthis regard, it is further significant that the lock mechanism utilizeddoes not need to be retracted to avoid damage to the side panel of avehicle during the locking operation.

FIGS. 46-51 illustrate an alternative lock consisting of a first andsecond interlock for securing the extender to the tailgate or bed of thetruck. As shown in FIG. 46, the first interlock portion or clamp 363 isaffixed to the bumper strut 182. The clamp 363 connects to the secondinterlock portion or latch or bar 364, which is attached to distal endof the tailgate 365 when the extender is in position over the tailgate,as illustrated in FIG. 46. A third interlock portion 364, identical tothe second interlock portion, may also be attached to the bed of thetruck 366 when the extender is used to form a rear storage compartmentas in FIG. 47.

FIG. 48 included an enlarged view of the clamp 363. The clamp 363 has anopening 366 to accommodate the bar 364. The opening 366 in the clamp 363includes a first portion 368 forming a narrow opening and a secondportion 367 defining a slot sizable enough to accommodate the bar 364.The clamp 363 is preferably made of a resilient material so that thefirst portion 368 can expand to allow the bar 364 to enter the receiverslot 367 defined by the second portion. Thus some force must be appliedto connect the clamp 363 to the bar 364.

FIG. 49 is a perspective view of the clamp 363 and the bar 364. As canbe seen, the bar consists of two flat mounting portions 370 that willserve as the attachment points to the tailgate or bed of the truck and araised portion 369 to which the clamp 363 attaches. FIG. 50 shows thatthe bar 364 has two holes 371 which allow the bar 364 to be screwed orbolted to a surface.

Advantageously, the alternative first 363 and second 364 interlock allowthe extender to be secured while in use. This reduces unwanted vibrationor noise and should prevent unwanted movement of the extender.Importantly, the extender can be simply secured using this lock bysimply pressing down on the extender when it is in position. Similarly,pushing up on the extender will release the fastener.

While the invention has been described with reference to certainpreferred embodiments, many variations are possible and those of skillin the art will appreciate various modifications within the scope andspirit of the invention.

1. A vehicle bed extender for use with a vehicle having an open storage bed having a rear end, a first upstanding side panel to one side of said bed having an inner side, a second upstanding side panel to an opposite side of said bed having an inner side and a tailgate, said extender comprising: a first side wall; a second side wall; a connecting wall extending between said first side wall and said second side wall, said first side wall, said second side wall and said connecting wall cooperating to form a generally U-shaped frame having a first open side and a second open side; a first mount comprising a first interlocking portion; a first mounting station configured to be fixed with respect to one of said first upstanding side panel and said second upstanding side panel and to engage said first interlocking portion, said first mounting station comprising a first stationary portion and a first moveable portion, wherein said first moveable portion comprises a first stop configured to prevent said first interlocking portion from disengaging from said first mounting station when said first moveable portion is in a first position; a second mount comprising a second interlocking portion; and a second mounting station configured to be fixed with respect to the other of said first upstanding side panel and said second upstanding side panel and to engage said second interlocking portion, said second mounting station comprising a second stationary portion and a second moveable portion, wherein said second moveable portion comprises a second stop configured to prevent said second interlocking portion from disengaging from said second mounting station when said first moveable portion is in a first position; wherein said first mount, said first mounting station, said second mount, and said second mounting station cooperate to secure said extender to said vehicle so that, when said first moveable portion is in its first position and said second moveable portion is in its first position, said extender is positionable in either a first upright position over said tailgate rearward of said rear end of said bed with said first open side facing away from said tailgate and said second open side facing toward said tailgate with said connecting wall in a substantially vertical alignment or a second upright position over said rear end of said bed forward of said tailgate with said connecting wall in a substantially vertical alignment, and said extender provides access from above to a space between said first side wall and said second side wall.
 2. The vehicle bed extender of claim 1, wherein said first moveable portion of said first mounting station is biased toward said first position such that said first moveable portion assumes said first position in the absence of external pressure and said second moveable portion of said second mounting station is biased toward said first position such that said second moveable portion assumes said first position in the absence of external pressure.
 3. The vehicle bed extender of claim 2, wherein said first moveable portion is moveable from said first position by a first application of manual pressure to a second position in which said first stop is positioned to allow said first interlocking portion to disengage from said first mounting station, said first moveable portion returning to said first position upon release of said first application of manual pressure and said second moveable portion is moveable from said first position by a second application of manual pressure to a second position in which said second stop is positioned to allow said second interlocking portion to disengage from said second mounting station, said second moveable portion returning to said first position upon release of said second application of manual pressure.
 4. The vehicle bed extender of claim 2, wherein the biasing of said first moveable portion is caused by a first spring and the biasing of said second moveable portion is caused by a second spring.
 5. The vehicle bed extender of claim 3, wherein said first moveable portion and said second moveable portion are configured to resist movement toward said second position when said bed extender moves so as to bring at least a portion of said bed extender into contact with said first stop or said second stop, thereby resisting disengagement of said first interlocking portion from said first mounting station and disengagement of said second interlocking portion from said second mounting station.
 6. A vehicle bed extender mounting station configured to be fixed with respect to a first upstanding side panel or a second upstanding side panel on a vehicle having an open storage bed having a rear end, said first upstanding side panel, said second upstanding side panel to an opposite side of said bed and a tailgate, said mounting station comprising: a stationary portion configured to be attached to said first upstanding side panel or said second upstanding side panel so as to fix said mounting station with respect to said first upstanding side panel or said second upstanding side panel; and a moveable portion attached to said stationary portion and moveable with respect to said stationary portion said moveable portion comprising a handle and a stop and biased toward a first position in which said stop and said stationary portion cooperate to engage an interlocking portion of a mount of said vehicle bed extender so as to secure said vehicle bed extender against detachment from said mounting station while allowing said vehicle bed extender to move from a first position over said tailgate rearward of said bed to a second position over said bed forward of said tailgate, said moveable portion further configured to assume, upon a manual application of pressure to said handle, a second position in which said interlocking portion can be disengaged from said mounting station so as to allow said vehicle bed extender to be detached from said mounting station, said moveable portion returning to said first position upon release of said application of manual pressure, said moveable portion configured to experience a force tending to maintain said moveable portion in said first position when said interlocking portion comes into contact with said stop such that said moveable portion and said stationary portion cooperate to resist detachment of said vehicle bed extender as a result of a movement of said interlocking member without a concurrent application of manual pressure to said handle.
 7. The vehicle bed extender mounting station of claim 6, wherein the cooperation of said moveable portion and said stationary portion to resist detachment of said vehicle bed extender is such that movement of said bed extender so as to exert an upward force on said mounting station exerts a closing force on said moveable portion such that said moveable portion assumes said first position.
 8. The vehicle bed extender mounting station of claim 6, further comprising a pivot located such that an upward force exerted by movement of said bed extender causes a rotational force which exerts a closing force on said moveable portion such that said moveable portion assumes said first position.
 9. The vehicle bed extender mounting station of claim 6, wherein said stationary portion further comprises a stationary cusp, a lower curved portion, and a vertical portion, said stationary cusp, said lower curved portion, and said stop cooperating to define a circle through about 300 degrees when said moveable portion is in said first position, wherein said interlocking portion is substantially circular in shape and has an outer diameter that is just smaller than the inner diameter of the circle defined by said stationary cusp, said lower curved portion, and said stop, and wherein a maximum distance between said vertical portion and said stationary cusp is larger than said outer diameter such that when said moveable portion is in said second position said interlocking portion can pass between said stationary cusp and said vertical wall without such passage being impaired by said stop.
 10. The vehicle bed extender mounting station of claim 7, wherein said moveable portion further comprises a spring and wherein said stationary portion and said moveable portion are attached at a pivot, wherein rotation of said moveable portion about said pivot in a first direction causes said moveable portion to assume said first position and wherein rotation about said pivot in a second direction opposite to said first direction causes said moveable portion to assume said second position, and wherein said spring is configured to resist any forces exerted on said stop that would, in the absence of said spring, cause said moveable portion to rotate about said pivot in said second direction.
 11. A method for an individual to mount a vehicle bed extender on a vehicle having an open storage bed having a rear end, a first upstanding side panel to one side of said bed, a second upstanding side panel to an opposite side of said bed and a tailgate, a first mounting station fixed with respect to said first upstanding panel, and a second mounting station fixed with respect to said second upstanding panel, the method comprising: providing a generally U-shaped vehicle bed extender, said vehicle bed extender having a first side wall, a second side wall, a connecting wall extending between said first side wall and said second side wall, a first mount with a first interlocking portion secured to said first side wall, and a second mount with a second interlocking portion secured to said second side wall; moving a moveable portion of said first mounting station and a moveable portion of said second mounting station such that said moveable portions are in a first position that allows said first mounting station to engage one of said first interlocking portion and said second interlocking portion and allows said second mounting station to engage the other of said first interlocking portion and said second interlocking portion; positioning said first side wall and said second side wall between said first side panel and said second side panel, such that said first interlocking portion is positioned above but not engaged by one of said first mounting station and said second mounting station and said second interlocking portion is positioned above but not engaged by the other of said first mounting station and said second mounting station, so that said connecting wall is in substantially vertically aligned over said tailgate rearward of said rear end of said bed and said extender provides access from above to a space between said first side wall and said second side wall; moving said bed extender substantially downward without substantially changing said substantial vertical alignment of said connecting wall, such moving causing said first mounting station of said first side panel to engage one of said first interlocking portion and said second interlocking portion, and causing said second mounting station of said second side panel to engage the other of said first interlocking portion and said second interlocking portion, so that said bed extender is in a first mounting position with said connecting wall in a substantially vertical position over said tailgate rearward of said rear end of said bed and said extender provides access from above to a space between said first side wall and said second side wall; and moving said moveable portion of said first mounting station and said moveable portion of said second mounting station such that said moveable portions are in a second position that prevents disengagement of said first mounting station to one of said first interlocking portion and said second interlocking portion and prevents disengagement of said second mounting station from the other of said first interlocking portion and said second interlocking portion.
 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising moving said bed extender from said first mounting position to a second mounting position in which said connecting wall is in a substantially vertical position over said rear end of said bed and forward of said tailgate and said extender provides access from above to a space between said first side wall and said second side wall.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein said moving said bed extender from said first mounting position comprises rotating said bed extender about an axis.
 14. A vehicle bed extender for use on a vehicle having an open storage bed having a rear end, a first upstanding side panel to one side of said bed, a second upstanding side panel to an opposite side of said bed and a tailgate, a first mounting station fixed with respect to said first upstanding panel, and a second mounting station fixed with respect to said second upstanding panel, said vehicle bed extender comprising: a first side wall; a second side wall; a connecting wall extending between said first side wall and said second side wall; a first mount with a first interlocking portion secured to said first side wall; and a second mount with a second interlocking portion secured to said second side wall, said vehicle bed extender being configured to be installed by an individual in accordance with a process comprising: moving a moveable portion of said first mounting station and a moveable portion of said second mounting station such that said moveable portions are in a first position that allows said first mounting station to engage one of said first interlocking portion and said second interlocking portion and allows said second mounting station to engage the other of said first interlocking portion and said second interlocking portion; positioning said first side wall and said second side wall between said first side panel and said second side panel, such that said first interlocking portion is positioned above but not engaged by one of said first mounting station and said second mounting station and said second interlocking portion is positioned above but not engaged by the other of said first mounting station and said second mounting station, so that said connecting wall is in substantially vertically aligned over said tailgate rearward of said rear end of said bed and said extender provides access from above to a space between said first side wall and said second side wall; moving said bed extender substantially downward without substantially changing said substantial vertical alignment of said connecting wall, such moving causing said first mounting station of said first side panel to engage one of said first interlocking portion and said second interlocking portion, and causing said second mounting station of said second side panel to engage the other of said first interlocking portion and said second interlocking portion, so that said bed extender is in a first mounting position with said connecting wall in a substantially vertical position over said tailgate rearward of said rear end of said bed and said extender provides access from above to a space between said first side wall and said second side wall; and moving said moveable portion of said first mounting station and said moveable portion of said second mounting station such that said moveable portions are in a second position that prevents disengagement of said first mounting station to one of said first interlocking portion and said second interlocking portion and prevents disengagement of said second mounting station from the other of said first interlocking portion and said second interlocking portion.
 15. The vehicle bed extender of claim 14, wherein said vehicle bed extender is further configured to be moveable from said first mounting position to a second mounting position in which said connecting wall is in a substantially vertical position over said rear end of said bed and forward of said tailgate and said extender provides access from above to a space between said first side wall and said second side wall.
 16. The vehicle bed extender of claim 15, wherein said vehicle bed extender is configured to be moveable from said first mounting position by rotating said bed extender about an axis.
 17. The vehicle bed extender of claim 3, wherein when said first moveable portion is moved to its second position and said second moveable portion is moved to its second position said vehicle bed extender is detachable from said vehicle without substantially changing said substantial vertical alignment of said connecting wall.
 18. The vehicle bed extender of claim 17, wherein said vehicle bed extender is configured such that detaching said vehicle bed extender from said vehicle without substantially changing said substantial vertical alignment of said connecting wall allows detachment of said vehicle bed extender when cargo is located so as to prevent substantially changing said substantial vertical alignment of said connecting wall.
 19. The method of claim 11, wherein said moving said bed extender substantially downward without substantially changing said substantial vertical alignment of said connecting wall allows attachment of said vehicle bed extender when cargo is located so as to prevent substantially changing said substantial vertical alignment of said connecting wall.
 20. The vehicle bed extender of claim 14, wherein said moving said bed extender substantially downward without substantially changing said substantial vertical alignment of said connecting wall allows attachment of said vehicle bed extender when cargo is located so as to prevent substantially changing said substantial vertical alignment of said connecting wall. 